tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23279513059787209082024-03-13T09:42:06.177-05:00The Cheapskate MomIDEAS FOR THE CFO OF YOUR FAMILY TO REDUCE, REUSE & RECYCLE TO SAVE YOU MONEY.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.comBlogger44125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-1054220324142667262009-10-23T17:26:00.004-05:002009-10-23T19:50:16.644-05:00Take a picture of your plumbing problem<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SuIuX0kq3MI/AAAAAAAABv8/DrWVD-FNhuc/s1600-h/Maggie+3518.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 239px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395926290327592130" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SuIuX0kq3MI/AAAAAAAABv8/DrWVD-FNhuc/s320/Maggie+3518.jpg" /></a> Does this story sound familiar? You go to the hardware store spend forever trying to buy what you need, go home and realize you bought the wrong thing.<br /><br />Or how about this story? Something goes wrong and you don't know how to fix it so you hire someone and pay a minimum of $50 for the repair.<br /><br />I've found a much better solution. Take a picture of your problem before heading to the store. In the past year all 3 of my toilets have broken, a pipe corroded under my kitchen sink and most recently I had a leak at the connection under my kitchen sink (pictured). I have been able to fix these problems for less than $4 each time there has been a problem. Much less than it would have cost to pay a professional.<br /><br />I simply take a picture of the problem area and take my camera with me to Lowe's. I show the worker where I have the leak and seek their advice on what tools I will need to fix it. They then show me where to find the parts as well as give whatever advice they may have on fixing it. In the instance of the pipe that corroded I also took a picture of the writing on the pipe so that I would know exactly what size I needed to get, not allowing my handwriting to confuse me if I had written it down.<br /><br />Some plumbing problems can be very complicated and I would recommend a plumber for those but a simple problem such as a leaky faucet can be easily remedied by anyone as long as you know what parts you need. The best part of it all? The satisfaction of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">acomplishing</span> something and not spending a lot of money doing it!Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-75101738832970329142009-10-20T11:10:00.002-05:002009-10-20T11:53:15.425-05:00An Inexpensive Way to Update Your Light FixturesMy house was built in the 1970's and the light fixtures have been hanging around since then. I don't have the money to buy new ones and to be honest the thought of switching the wires terrifies me. This is a simple and easy way to give them a little update without doing a whole lot of work or spending a whole lot of money.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jwq5XuaI/AAAAAAAABvs/66ex54hgRq4/s1600-h/Maggie+3220.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394718353947867554" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jwq5XuaI/AAAAAAAABvs/66ex54hgRq4/s320/Maggie+3220.jpg" /></a> 1. <strong>Buy a spray paint that you can easily apply to metal surfaces.</strong> This is a hammered finish spray paint that I bought for less than $7. I wanted my fixtures to look like dark metal but there are all kids of paints for all kinds of decorator styles.<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jv3vyV5I/AAAAAAAABvk/Nd15M02ANT0/s1600-h/Maggie+3225.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394718340217460626" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jv3vyV5I/AAAAAAAABvk/Nd15M02ANT0/s320/Maggie+3225.jpg" /></a> 2. <strong>Clean off you light fixture and lightly sand it if necessary.<br /></strong><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jvj0wdDI/AAAAAAAABvc/vpxd3CjITuI/s1600-h/Maggie+3227.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394718334869599282" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jvj0wdDI/AAAAAAAABvc/vpxd3CjITuI/s320/Maggie+3227.jpg" /></a> 3. <strong>Remove glass and bulb. </strong>Also, make sure you turn off the power to that light.</div><div>4. <strong>Unscrew the knob that connects the sconce to the wall.<br /></strong><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jvFsBo_I/AAAAAAAABvU/NdN4Oi0Y6Eg/s1600-h/Maggie+3228.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394718326779913202" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3jvFsBo_I/AAAAAAAABvU/NdN4Oi0Y6Eg/s320/Maggie+3228.jpg" /></a> 5. <strong> Tape paper to the wall to protect it from the spray paint.</strong> I used old Christmas wrapping paper that I buy for pennies at the after Christmas sales.</div><div>6. <strong>Replace the sconce carefully.</strong> Do not put the main screw back on, paint it separately, you do not want it to get stuck as it dries.</div></div><div>7. <strong>Spray the sconce until all parts are covered.</strong> I made a mistake and didn't get the underside. I'm going to have to redo mine so make sure you got it everywhere the first time.</div><div>8. <strong>Let dry.</strong> Make sure that the paper isn't sticking to the sconce.</div><div>9. <strong>Remove paper and put main screw back in place.</strong> </div><div>10. <strong>You can also put the bulb back in and even change out the glass.</strong> Our <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.mormon.org">Church</a> did a swap earlier this year of old items we didn't need. It was basically a free, multi-family <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">garage</span> sale. There I picked up a big box filled with glass for light fixtures. This one is a little too clear or my taste so I think I will lightly paint the inside white. </div><div> </div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3juUzfoXI/AAAAAAAABvM/kYKnG9wCY7g/s1600-h/Maggie+3235.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394718313657901426" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/St3juUzfoXI/AAAAAAAABvM/kYKnG9wCY7g/s320/Maggie+3235.jpg" /></a> This project was super easy and took much less than an hour to complete. I'm happy with the finished product and I'm ready to work on updating the rest of the fixtures in the house. Good <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">bye</span> gold!!!!<br /><div> </div></div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-77828808090042834072009-10-10T21:36:00.007-05:002009-10-22T11:20:55.722-05:00Fill Out Those Product Information Forms!!<span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color:#000000;">You know when you buy a baby item such as a crib, high chair, stroller etc. they come with a little card for you to fill out your information and send it back to the company? They often call these product registration forms. FILL THOSE OUT!</span><br /></span><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I have much better things to do with my time than to scour random websites to see if any of my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">child's</span> toys or other items are recalled. However if you fill out those forms and send them in you don't have to search they will contact you.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Recently I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">received</span> an e-mail informing me that my <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">child's</span> crib (Jardine Americana) had <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">been</span> recalled. The reason? Some super human babies were strong enough to kick and break the wooden rails and 13 of them got minor scrapes and bruises. Not really concerning to me but the good news was I was now eligible for a new crib!</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">I hated the crib that we originally bought. Pregnancy brain, stress and a husband who was sick of spending countless hours wandering the aisles of Babies-R-Us forced me to buy a crib I wasn't in love with. For the past year I looked at it with resentment, plus my child was able to chew on the wood which made it uglier than ever. </span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">Because I was informed about the recall I immediately was able to contact the company and was sent a voucher for any crib I wanted within the limits of the highest price that I could have bought the original crib at which for me was $299. The one I ended up with was a beautiful, dark wood, sleigh crib that was on sale for $299 down from almost $500.</span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;">So my advice - fill out those papers! It could pay off not just in a newer model but it could also potentially save your child from injury. Also, if your child's items fall apart or become hazardous don't be afraid to contact the company. You should at least be able to get a refund and you could save <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">someone elses</span> child from an injury in the future as well as help direct companies to make a stronger, safer product. </span>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-34991129019747712532009-09-16T11:33:00.001-05:002009-09-16T11:33:01.048-05:00Only buy select-a-size paper towels<a href="http://www.cnet.com/i/bto/20080810/towel-matic_270x270.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 270px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 270px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.cnet.com/i/bto/20080810/towel-matic_270x270.jpg" /></a> After a visit to my parents house I became shockingly aware that not everyone in the world knows of the beauties of the select-a-size paper towel.<br /><br />I went to grab a paper towel to clean up a small spill and it was as <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">if</span> I pulled a bath towel off the roll. The paper towel was huge! What a waste of money, since I just needed a 1/3 of the towel.<br /><br />Select-a-size paper towels are no more expensive than regular paper towels. They are the regular paper towel but perforated into thirds. This way if you have a small spill use one towel, medium, two towels, etc.<br /><br />You will save so much more money in the long run because you will be wasting less. Don't even ask questions. Get the select-a-size next time you buy paper towels. You'll thank me for it.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-78495164915892558992009-09-15T11:26:00.003-05:002009-09-15T11:40:27.611-05:00Food for Fines<a href="http://blogs.skokielibrary.info/soapbox/files/2009/04/cans.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 313px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 190px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://blogs.skokielibrary.info/soapbox/files/2009/04/cans.jpg" /></a> Do you have library fines? Don't worry, no one is judging you. The good news is you have a chance to repent for your evil late book returning ways!<br /><br />For the month of September, if you live in Jefferson County, Alabama you can exchange a can of food for every dollar you have in fines! This is so great because you give to the needy, pay off your debts and save money doing it too!<br /><br />Just grab some non-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">perishable</span> food from your stockpile and ta-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">da</span>! All is well with the world!<br /><br />Most libraries around the country have a program like this to pay off fines. Call your local library and ask when their food for fines program is.<br /><br /><a href="http://blogs.skokielibrary.info/soapbox/files/2009/04/cans.jpg"></a><br /><div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-29734974308191501312009-07-22T10:33:00.002-05:002009-07-22T10:44:24.396-05:00A site to get deeply discounted stuff!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmcyIsKj68I/AAAAAAAABNo/d4WNCZADXA0/s1600-h/mb_logo.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 64px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361309006283664322" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmcyIsKj68I/AAAAAAAABNo/d4WNCZADXA0/s320/mb_logo.png" /></a> I haven't purchased from this site yet, but my sister-in-law has it marked as one of her favorites. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.mamabargains.com/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">MamaBargains</span>.com </a> is a site that sells just one baby or kid item at a time. They get <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">excellent</span> deals from vendors and every item is 50%-80% off the retail price. Each item is very unique (meaning you won't just find it at <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Walmart</span>). I have seen really cool <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">convertible</span> high chairs, and other baby items for really inexpensive prices. Their site says that they gear items for kids 10 and under.<br /><br />Check it out every week or so to see if there is a deal waiting for you. This is a great place to get yourself stuff as well as gifts for others. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Smcx9llGT3I/AAAAAAAABNg/gCXTL5oMQAA/s1600-h/mb_logo.png"></a><br /><br /><div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-24974574480455273292009-07-20T16:30:00.001-05:002009-07-20T16:30:00.499-05:00Pick your own produce<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmORX7r4dHI/AAAAAAAABMI/xbzZGUKpnmc/s1600-h/Maggie+2813.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360287821845787762" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmORX7r4dHI/AAAAAAAABMI/xbzZGUKpnmc/s320/Maggie+2813.jpg" /></a> A few Saturday's ago my family and I spent the morning picking our own blueberries! It was a great family activity and the part that made mom really happy was that we got 4.75 pounds of blueberries for just $4!<br /><br />We went to<br /><br />Bear Mountain Blueberry Farm<br />8227 Clayton Cove Road<br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Springville</span>, Alabama<br />681-8656<br /><br />Look for farms in your area. <a href="http://www.pickyourown.org/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pickyourown</span>.org</a> is a site that can help you locate farms in your area. It's a great way for the family to get out as well as get a great deal on fresh produce!Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-31083102741877629832009-07-19T16:22:00.003-05:002009-07-19T16:40:27.784-05:00What to do with the bags sheets come in<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmOO7zF487I/AAAAAAAABMA/2MtK3T1Huwo/s1600-h/etsy+318+small.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 239px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5360285139479360434" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SmOO7zF487I/AAAAAAAABMA/2MtK3T1Huwo/s320/etsy+318+small.JPG" /></a> I just bought new sheets at Christmastime (thanks Grandma!) and it killed me to throw out the thick, plastic, zippered cases they came in. So what is a mom to do? <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Upcycle</span>!<br /><br />I simply sewed a strap to the top (that's the black thing you see). The strap was a thick piece of ribbon. It's as simple as that.<br /><br />There are pouches in the front and back where the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">labels</span> for the sheets went. You can stick a picture, label, or card (as seen here) in those pouches and fill your new bag with whatever you want. I chose to hold my handmade cards in this one. But I thought that yarn would be a great thing for these to hold. You could even punch a large eyelet trough the bag and string the yarn through to keep control of the yarn for a project you are working on!Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-41632862883836211762009-07-14T16:44:00.003-05:002009-07-14T16:54:25.457-05:00The value of a penny<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz9Aev3reI/AAAAAAAABLI/z3Obl_ugdgY/s1600-h/Maggie+2737.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358435841359719906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz9Aev3reI/AAAAAAAABLI/z3Obl_ugdgY/s320/Maggie+2737.jpg" border="0" /></a> If I haven't convinced you to use coupons before maybe this will help...<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The total cost of all of the items you see here is 1 penny. </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br />Yes, that's right, that penny that was on the ground that you didn't pick up, was picked up by me and I turned it into all of this!<br /><br />Using a combination of store sales, coupons, free samples, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">CVS's</span> extra care rewards program the total cost of everything ended up being one penny. I bought $40 worth of items that day that<br />are not pictured here but these were just a penny. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ahhhh</span>.... it feels so good.....<br /><br />What are you waiting for? Get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">couponing</span> today!! <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">http://www.moneysavingmom.com/</a> has helped me learn the tricks of the trade. Let her help you too.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-70644648592989422612009-07-14T16:20:00.003-05:002009-07-14T16:44:22.528-05:00Publix Weekly Penny Item<a href="http://jeffr.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/publix.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 248px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 74px" alt="" src="http://jeffr.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/publix.jpg" border="0" /></a> As if you needed another reason to love Publix here is one more - the Publix penny item!!<br /><br />Each Sunday and Monday Publix has a mystery item that they price at just one penny! That's right, one penny! You might as well consider it free.<br /><br />How it works: You must buy $10 worth of groceries (before coupons and the original cost of the penny item is included) and you can only get one item at that price per visit. There is a coupon in the ad in the Sunday paper but many stores do not require it. The Publix on 31 in Vestavia and Hoover, Alabama do not require the coupon. Make sure the checker discounts it though if you don't have the coupon.<br /><br />Items that have been the penny item recently have been, apple juice, toilet paper, tortilla chips, salad dressing, window cleaner and more.<br /><br />I save my shopping for Monday and there are two stores close to my house. I will go to one in the morning to get most of my items and get a penny item then. If there were items that the first store had sold out of I will then go to the other store to get the rest of my items and get another penny item.<br /><br /><div></div><div>Don't forget that Publix doubles coupons up to $.50 and you can pair a manufacturers coupon with a store coupon to maximize your savings. Also, don't forget that they also take competitors coupons so all those Bruno's $5 off a $30 purchase (pre-coupon savings) can be used as well. </div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-77144355647668778792009-06-12T12:25:00.014-05:002009-07-14T16:43:48.214-05:00What to do with old formula cansI love formula cans, there are so many uses for them. You can decorate them to hold anything you want. I have cans decorated all over my house to hold pencils, craft scissors, craft hand punches, candy, cotton balls, crayons, and more! You are only limited to your imagination. They can also be decorated and used to give someone a batch of homemade cookies or candy. There can be a sharp edge around the inside so make sure that if a child will be using it you take precautions to cover the sharp edge with fabric or felt.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7yKwBopI/AAAAAAAABLA/6YatVc62-2o/s1600-h/Maggie+2544.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358434495961866898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7yKwBopI/AAAAAAAABLA/6YatVc62-2o/s320/Maggie+2544.jpg" border="0" /></a> I made these little Halloween candy jars using fabric, felt and a hot glue gun. I made a little bag using some fabric I had lying around and glued the edge to the outside of the can. This is to be kept inside the can to cover the can. I then wrapped it with felt (to cover the edge of the bag) and added felt accessories. On the cat, I added wire whiskers. The other is made just using paper, glue and a few scrapbook accessories.<br /><br />A great way to upcycle those formula cans!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7xSY1jPI/AAAAAAAABK4/x4MZpypLSUY/s1600-h/Maggie+1101.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358434480832220402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7xSY1jPI/AAAAAAAABK4/x4MZpypLSUY/s320/Maggie+1101.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7w8Nzv6I/AAAAAAAABKw/kC5MjyG2Sw8/s1600-h/Maggie+1100.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358434474880384930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Slz7w8Nzv6I/AAAAAAAABKw/kC5MjyG2Sw8/s320/Maggie+1100.jpg" border="0" /></a></div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-20586965664015052802009-06-10T13:29:00.007-05:002009-06-10T15:06:24.625-05:00Make Your Own Coupon Keeper<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9utnbQ7I/AAAAAAAABAo/0tWelTBKHcI/s1600-h/Maggie+2521.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345770261672838066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9utnbQ7I/AAAAAAAABAo/0tWelTBKHcI/s320/Maggie+2521.jpg" border="0" /></a> This picture is just another reminder that buying with coupons and store sales has its rewards. All of the items on this table cost me just under $25. Also, another reminder that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">WIC</span> program is a great way to be able to give your babies the nutrition they need. The items on the Lazy <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Susan</span> in the center (cereal, milk, cheese, juice and eggs) were from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">WIC</span>. To view my previous post about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WIC</span> and to see if you qualify <u><a href="http://thecheapskatemom.blogspot.com/2008/11/wic-program.html">click here</a></u>.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9uBJXoTI/AAAAAAAABAg/SRMfTYEN5gc/s1600-h/Maggie+2547.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345770249735610674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9uBJXoTI/AAAAAAAABAg/SRMfTYEN5gc/s320/Maggie+2547.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Now... onto the coupon keeper....<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9t7Z03BI/AAAAAAAABAY/0Wi-MVhNA9E/s1600-h/Maggie+2541.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345770248194022418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Si_9t7Z03BI/AAAAAAAABAY/0Wi-MVhNA9E/s320/Maggie+2541.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="left">Here is to all of you who say "If you haven't used something in 6 months, get rid of it." Well, I have a hard time following that principle because of days like today. I was in desperate need of a larger coupon holder and I didn't want to have to buy a binder and business card holder <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">inserts</span>. I estimated that to do so would have cost me around $10-$15 which would have defeated the point of all my coupon clipping these past few weeks. </div><div></div><div align="left">So, this morning I went digging in an old drawer and found a picture holder from the 7<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> grade (yes, that would be 15 years ago). Thank goodness I didn't throw it out! There were a few crummy pictures in it and I hadn't touched it for years. I took the pictures out and created paper tabs (I cut my tabs using my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Cricut</span> but you can just fold over rectangles of paper) and stapled them to the inside. I then sorted my coupons. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Simple as that! They are now organized, easy to view, and easy to find. Now I won't be flipping through my messy stacks of coupons trying to find what I am looking for. It's a great way to reuse all those picture books you are not using. </div></div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-59467818703441597372009-06-07T13:23:00.005-05:002009-06-10T15:07:04.983-05:00What to do with old cookie sheets<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344654970166808098" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SiwHYM_RjiI/AAAAAAAABAQ/lueqypTncK8/s320/Maggie+1381.jpg" border="0" />Here is an idea for what to do with an old cookie sheet. Mine were rusty and it was time for them to die. But since I can't just let things go I had to find a new use for it. <div><br /><div>I made this one into a Christmas countdown calendar. I just painted the old cookie sheet red and glued on paper to create the design I wanted. I used mod <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">podge</span> over the whole thing to seal it up. The scalloped square is just a piece of chipboard I had laying around in my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">scrapbook</span> supply box, I painted and decorated it and glued magnets (I used advertisement magnets that I cut up) to the back. This part moves from day to day. The last two days are glass magnets that I made (using cut outs from magazines), one with Santa and one with Jesus. </div><div></div><div>You don't have to just make advent calendars. Since they are magnetic you can create a message board, a picture keeper, a place to display your child's art for the day, a weekly meal schedule, etc. The options are only limited to your imagination. </div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-65159390269505311282009-06-03T12:49:00.004-05:002009-06-03T16:17:21.156-05:00Frozen Pizza Bagels - Under $3 a dozen!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Sia4Ni15uUI/AAAAAAAAA_4/GyanDvNENdU/s1600-h/Maggie+2520.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343160550752368962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Sia4Ni15uUI/AAAAAAAAA_4/GyanDvNENdU/s320/Maggie+2520.jpg" border="0" /></a> After last weeks post about coupons my mother said to me, "What are you going to do with all that food?" Well, here is one thing I did with it - made Frozen Pizza Bagels!<br /><br />For less than $3 for the whole batch I made a dozen pizza <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">bagles</span>. Here is my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">reciepe</span> and how to freeze them.<br /><br />6 Plain <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bagles</span><br />1/2 can spaghetti sauce<br />1 c. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">mozarella</span> cheese<br />2 mushrooms diced<br />about 15 slices of pepperoni chopped<br /><br />1. Lay <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">bagel</span> halves on cookie sheet with insides facing up.<br />2. Coat each one with a generous amount of sauce (some sauce <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">will</span> soak into <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">bagel</span>).<br />3. Top with cheese and toppings.<br />4. Lightly press down on the toppings so some sauce touches everything. (The sauce is like the glue of the frozen pizza. If your toppings touch even a little bit of the sauce they are more likely to stay on the pizza when it is frozen.)<br />5. Place cookie sheet in freezer for an hour or so. Once pizzas are frozen you can take them <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">off</span> the cookie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">sheet</span> and wrap them however you choose for long term storage. You can place them individually in sandwich bags, wrap in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Saran</span> wrap, place in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Tupperware</span> etc. Whichever fits you, your budget and your freezer best is what you should do.<br />6. When ready to cook. Preheat oven to 400 degrees and bake on cookie sheet for about 10 minutes (approx. time. Make sure you watch them carefully all ovens are different!). You can also place them in the microwave for 2 minutes.<br /><br /><br />This is a great way to stock up on foods you love and not spend a whole lot of money doing it. These pizzas took me less than 15 minutes to prepare and saved me lots of money! And besides... who doesn't love pizza?!?Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-64350441059702702362009-05-23T12:24:00.006-05:002009-05-23T13:10:30.495-05:00Why Coupons Are Awesome!!!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Shgx7GbtFpI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/QOXukuNml9s/s1600-h/Maggie+2497.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339072249656579730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/Shgx7GbtFpI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/QOXukuNml9s/s320/Maggie+2497.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>So I have some great friends who are amazing and have inspired me to start using coupons. The picture above is from my first trip trying out the coupon technique the pros use. I have to admit is was a complete success and I couldn't be happier. The above items should have cost me $92.23 (before taxes) but instead I saved $64.02 and all of this food only cost me $28.21 (before taxes). I was grinning form ear to ear as I left the store revelling in my new triumph. </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>Now, let me tell you how I did it...</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><strong>How to get coupons:</strong> You can get coupons from the paper, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">blinkies</span> and stands in the aisles of the store, from ads at the front of the store, from signing up for free coupons and freebies from the manufacturers site, or there are a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">plethora</span> of websites that will direct you to coupons you can print from your computer. Here is one that I like called <a href="http://www.moneysavingmom.com/">Money Saving Mom</a>. Collect as many as you can.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><strong>Use them with Buy One Get One Free deals:</strong> I shop at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Publix</span> which frequently has B1G1Free sales. When chips are normally $4 and you can B1G1Free you don't have to buy two to get the deal you can just buy one for just $2. If you also have a coupon for $1 off you end up paying only $1 for the chips that were normally $4 saving you $3! Many stores also double coupons that are 50 cents or less. So a 50 cent coupon is actually $1. Where you can really stock up is when you have more than one coupon. Check your stores B1G1Free deals for the week and plan ahead. If your coupon is for more that the price the remaining money is called overage and is deducted from another item. </div><div></div><div>Here's a breakdown of some of the stuff that I bought today and the savings.</div><div></div><div>A-1 Sauce Various Flavors</div><ul><li><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Originally</span> $3.79. </li><li>B1G1Free Sale Price $1.90</li><li>Coupon $2.00 off</li><li>Total for each $-.10</li></ul><p>Oscar Mayer Beef Jumbo Franks</p><ul><li>Originally $3.99</li><li>B1G1Free Sale Price $1.99</li><li>Coupon $1.00 off when you buy 2</li><li>Total for each $.99</li></ul><p>Kraft Dressings Various Flavors</p><ul><li>Originally $2.99</li><li>B1G1Free Sale Price $1.49</li><li>Coupon $1.50 off</li><li>Total for each $-.01</li></ul><p>Betty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Crocker</span> Turtle Supreme Brownie Mix</p><ul><li>Originally $2.55 </li><li>B1G1Free Sale Price $1.28</li><li>Coupon $.50 off when you buy two but was doubled so it was actually $1 off when you buy two </li><li>Total for each $.78 plus there is a coupon on the boxes for 2 free movie tickets with 10 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">UPC's</span> all I need is 4 more from other <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">participating</span> brands and I get to see Harry Potter 6 for free too!</li></ul><p>Lenders <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Bagels</span></p><ul><li>Originally $2.09</li><li>B1G1F sale price $1.05</li><li>Coupon $1.00 off when you buy 3</li><li>Total for each $.71</li></ul><p>Philadelphia Cream Cheese Spread Assorted Flavors</p><ul><li>Originally $1.99</li><li>4 or $5 sale $1.25 each</li><li>Coupon save $1 when you buy 2</li><li>Total for each $.75 </li></ul><p><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Triscut</span> Assorted Flavors</p><ul><li>Originally $3.19</li><li>B1G1Free sale price $1.60</li><li>Coupon save $1 when you buy 2</li><li>Total for each $1.10</li></ul><p>I also got a dollar off of the roast beef from a store coupon and the olives weren't on sale, I just wanted them. :) As you can see the savings are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">significant</span> and I'm not even a pro yet. A friend of mine bought $180 dollars in groceries the other day and only ended up spending $60 a savings of $120!</p><p>Think of what this will mean to your budget as well as your food storage. You never know what is going to happen if you will loose your job, a grocery worker strike or a natural <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">disaster</span> with take out the food supply. Won't it feel good to know that your savvy shopping and the food you have stored up will be there when you need it? <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Doomsday's</span> aside - I'm just happy that I now have brownies on hand for all those parties and Church activities that I will be asked to bring a treat to!</p>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-5774876188069087692009-05-20T09:40:00.002-05:002009-05-20T09:43:57.212-05:00Free Hot Dogs<a href="http://images.plumgoodfood.com/images/Kristin/mainstream/lg/498.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 175px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 175px" alt="" src="http://images.plumgoodfood.com/images/Kristin/mainstream/lg/498.jpg" border="0" /></a> We all pretend that we are disgusted by them but let's face it... everyone loves hot dogs!<br /><br />Go get yourself a coupon for a free pack! Oscar Mayer is giving out coupons for a free package. <a href="http://kraft.promotions.com/ombeeffranks/front.do">Click here</a> to sign up.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-53982207915881951452009-05-19T14:08:00.005-05:002009-05-20T10:14:20.263-05:00Sign Up For Free Samples<a href="http://www.businesspundit.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/mail-box-green.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 257px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px" alt="" src="http://www.businesspundit.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/mail-box-green.jpg" border="0" /></a> Getting stuff for free is awesome. Free samples are the best because you can try something that you may think you want but just aren't sure enough to spend a lot of money to try. Getting free samples of things is also great because you can keep them as a "rainy day" item or keep it in a 72 hour emergency kit. For example a free sample of tampons comes in handy when you run out and it suddenly becomes an emergency. Or you use the last of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">dish washing</span> detergent but thank goodness you have that free sample to use before you can get to the store again.<br /><br />On <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Walmart's</span></span> site there is a section where you can sign up for <a href="http://instoresnow.walmart.com/In-Stores-Now-free-samples.aspx">free samples of items</a>. There are also several places all over the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Internet</span> you can find free samples of things. Oh and if you're having a baby, sign up for every site there is, you will get free formula, baby products and checks for lots of money to go towards formula. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Totally</span> worth it.<br /><br />If you are concerned about getting a ton on junk e-mail for signing up at these sites just simply open up an e-mail account that you can use for these things specifically. That way, special offers and coupons won't junk up your personal e-mail account.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-12698721133041266572009-05-11T20:35:00.003-05:002009-05-18T15:21:55.323-05:00Discount Days and Free Birthday Food at Moe's<a href="http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/bch/AboutBC/images/thumb_992889_MoesSouthwestGrill_.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 256px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 169px" alt="" src="http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/bch/AboutBC/images/thumb_992889_MoesSouthwestGrill_.jpg" border="0" /></a> Well, I just came back from a delicious dinner at Moe's. The best part about it? It was free!! If you go to their <u><a href="http://www.moes.com/"><strong>site</strong></a></u><strong> </strong>you can sign up for their free birthday promotion. On your birthday they send you an e-mail with a coupon for a free entree. You have 7 days to use it. It's a simple as that! I saved almost $8 and had a lovely evening out with the family.<br /><br />While I was there I was also informed that Monday's you get $1 off all burritos and on Tuesday's kids eat free! This is the Moe's in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Vestavia</span>, Alabama. I am not 100% sure if all Moe's have promotions on the same day so I would check with your Moe's ahead of time. The birthday dinner is applicable at all Moe's locations.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-42424837865964712932009-03-15T16:36:00.008-05:002009-03-15T22:24:06.902-05:00Free Movies From The Red Box<a href="http://pulse2.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/redbox.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 368px; height: 432px;" src="http://pulse2.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/redbox.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Many people love <a href="http://www.redbox.com/home.aspx">Redbox</a>. Redbox is a DVD kiosk that is located in many grocery stores and McDonalds' around the country. You simply pay $1 to rent a movie for one day. If you keep it for longer than a day it is $1 for each additional day. The best part is you can return it to any Redbox in the country and is ideal for long car trips with the kids. If you go to their official <a href="http://www.redbox.com/home.aspx">site</a> you can register and recieve a promotional code for a free movie.<br /><br />At the site <a href="http://www.insideredbox.com/redbox-codes/">Inside Redbox</a> you can register and you will be updated with promo codes for free rentals on a regular basis. I have never used Redbox but I have heard lots of others rave about it as well as the free promo code site.<br /><br />I doesn't hurt to check it out, because what's better than a $1 movie rental? A FREE movie rental!Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-61634812240115038622009-03-11T12:01:00.003-05:002009-03-12T11:11:47.326-05:00Baby Yourself with Blue Cross Blue Shield<a href="http://www.connectmidmichigan.com/uploadedImages/weyi/News/Stories/Blue%20Cross%20Blue%20Shield.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 201px" alt="" src="http://www.connectmidmichigan.com/uploadedImages/weyi/News/Stories/Blue%20Cross%20Blue%20Shield.jpg" border="0" /></a> Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama has a great program for expectant moms called <a href="https://www.bcbsal.org/health/baby.cfm">Baby Yourself</a>. The Baby Yourself program is usually free with your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">insurance</span> coverage plan. To enroll, just follow the link to their site or give them a call.<br /><br />I participated in this program and was very pleased with what it offered. I had a nurse assigned to me who would call me periodically to see how I was doing. She would also remind me of little things to do that my doctor just didn't have time to tell me, like how much water to drink or foods to stay away from. If I ever had any questions I could call her directly. Not only did I feel special but I also had somewhere to turn to for questions to my answers, even the silly ones, when my doctors office was not available or the question was too trivial to make an appointment for.<br /><br />They also shower you with free items and information. I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">received</span> nice books, one was a dad's guide to pregnancy and the other was a book about health complete with charts on what to do in certain situations and when to take your baby to the doctor and when to treat it at home. I also <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">received</span> things such as large mugs for drinking water, items to help with breastfeeding, medicine droppers and more. When my baby was born the nurse called to congratulate me, followed up on how we were doing and sent a nice soft blanket.<br /><br />It was a great program to participate in, I would encourage all with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">BCBS</span> to join when you have a baby. If you don't have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">BCBS</span>, check with your insurance provider. I'm sure that others have similar programs.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-7179605947806101262009-03-06T11:16:00.004-06:002009-03-06T11:34:25.964-06:00Free Gifts and Coupons from Publix<a href="http://www.kintera.org/atf/cf/{9EFC2615-904F-4A31-BBD2-B781E065E5DA}/Publix%20Logo%20-%20horizontal.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 352px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 138px" alt="" src="http://www.kintera.org/atf/cf/%7B9EFC2615-904F-4A31-BBD2-B781E065E5DA%7D/Publix%20Logo%20-%20horizontal.jpg" border="0" /></a> I love shopping at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Publix</span> and less than a year ago I signed up for a great program that they offer for babies, <a href="http://www.publix.com/clubs/baby/Home.do">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Publix</span> Baby Club</a><br /><br />When you sign up for this club you get a free book "Caring for your Baby and Child" as well as <u>several</u> coupons for practical items in their store. Many of the coupons were for free items such as rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, cocoa butter lotion and more. They also send coupons for large discounts on items such as diapers, wipes and baby dishes. In addition, I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">received</span> coupons for items that you just don't ever find coupons for like meat from their deli and other meats. <br /><br />Before my daughter's 1st birthday I also <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">received</span> generous coupons for ice cream, cake and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Mylar</span> balloons. When I say generous I mean coupons that range anywhere from $1-$6. They also accept manufactures coupons and frequently have buy one get one free sales (where you don't have to get 2 things to get the discount). <br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Publix</span> also has a program for preschoolers called the <a href="http://www.publix.com/preschool/NonMemberHome.do">Preschool Pals Club</a>. I have not yet participated in this program but if you visit the link you can view all of the things your preschooler can <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">receive</span>.<br /><br />Another reason I love <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Publix</span> - they have "car" shopping carts which keep my little one entertained (along with sanitizing wipes for the carts), free cookies for kids, free coffee for parents (though I've never tried it) and the service you get there is excellent.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-90870158036574570962009-03-03T15:00:00.005-06:002009-05-20T10:15:02.749-05:00Free Immunizations For Your Kids<a href="http://mom.exchange.ph/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/immunization.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 220px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 178px" alt="" src="http://mom.exchange.ph/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/immunization.jpg" border="0" /></a>Immunizations can get really expensive! Even if you have health insurance the co-pays can really add up. Did you know that you can get free <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">immunizations</span> for your kids?<br /><br />Jefferson County here in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Alabama</span> has a program called <a href="http://www.jcdh.org/DC/DC03.aspx#TotSchedule">Tot Shots</a>. Each month at various places around town (mostly churches) nurses from area hospitals as well as nurses from the health department administer immunizations to children.<br /><br />How it works: You call or go to the <a href="http://www.jcdh.org/DC/DC03.aspx#TotSchedule">website</a> and find the location and time of the Tot Shot Clinic near you. Clinics are held several places each month. Bring your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">child's</span> prior immunization forms and they will give your child the immunizations that they need for their age. There is no financial hardship requirement or insurance necessary. Even if you have insurance you are welcome. Anyone is allowed to participate in this program. There is usually a short wait 15-30 minutes. They are very professional and take good care of the children. They also record and send the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">immunization</span> information to your child's doctor. If you are not happy with the program you are not obligated to continue with it. But I would strongly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">recommend</span> continuing to get immunizations through your family doctor.<br /><br />If you don't live in Jefferson County, Alabama, call your local health department or ask your pediatrician for information about your areas' immunization program. Many health departments offer free or greatly discounted immunizations for children.<br /><br />Don't allow your children to be unprotected from disease just to save cash. Check out programs like these and you will be glad you did.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-70414789027935522122009-02-24T11:36:00.007-06:002009-02-24T11:51:22.033-06:00Before You Go To The Book Store Check Out The Library<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SaQwXyYbJlI/AAAAAAAAAvA/qWuPLxZlAIQ/s1600-h/etsy+007+small.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306419446168626770" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SaQwXyYbJlI/AAAAAAAAAvA/qWuPLxZlAIQ/s200/etsy+007+small.JPG" border="0" /></a> I love to buy books. I know that at the library you can check out books for free, but sometimes you just want to keep a book for your own read it over and over again, crinkle the pages and bend the covers.<br /><br />But the library isn't just for rentals anymore. At many <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">libraries</span></span></span> you can buy books too. Libraries are <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">constantly</span></span></span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">buying</span></span></span> new books so they have to make room for them by selling their older books.<br /><br />Many libraries give books away, some have sales a few times a year and some have permanent bookstores. The <a href="http://www.hooverlibrary.org/">Hoover Public Library</a> has a permanent bookstore. Books, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">CD's</span></span></span>, Books on Tape, Encyclopedias, and Movies are all sold and range in price anywhere from .25 cents to $1.<br /><br />Not all the items for sale are books that are ancient and uninteresting. There was a whole section of awesome hands on science and craft books, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">CliffsNotes</span></span></span> and even those travel books for foreign <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">countries</span> that people like to buy before a big trip. There were so many books in there to chose from I can't list them all here.<br /><br />So next time you are looking for a book to buy, check out the library first. You'll be getting a great deal and you'll be giving back to library too.Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-83588542913859312082009-02-18T14:08:00.004-06:002009-02-18T14:28:17.628-06:00Make Inexpensive Play Clothes<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SZxr2OXpDFI/AAAAAAAAAuY/zKZ4eR5WQ70/s1600-h/Halloween+Carnaval+025.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304233040449965138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_35NJ8wmgEGQ/SZxr2OXpDFI/AAAAAAAAAuY/zKZ4eR5WQ70/s200/Halloween+Carnaval+025.jpg" border="0" /></a> I can't believe I'm sharing this old photo with the world (by the way I'm 6 months pregnant here). I've been making this costume for Halloween for several years now because it is cheap, it is easy to make and it lets me be creative. With 4 paper grocery bags I am able to create last minute cowboy costumes for me and the Mr. Get creative with <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">scissors</span> and markers and you can do anything.<br /><br />Play clothes don't have to cost a lot if anything at all. It can also be fun for your kids to make them themselves. I cut the bags to what I want them to be, it's as simple as that. The bags are sturdy and have a leather appearance after you crinkle them and smooth them. I've also made <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Indian</span> costumes with these too. You can punch holes in the chaps and string yarn trough. The belt buckles were made from cardboard and tin foil. I have also made guns in the past from cardboard, toilet paper rolls and tin foil. You can color these costumes to look like cow hide and even include a shiny <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">sheriff</span> badge.<br /><br />Martha Stewart has other creative how-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">to's</span> on <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/article/7-grocery-getups?lnc=a1ba08b2887ee010VgnVCM1000003d370a0aRCRD&page=1&rsc=articlecontent_crafts">seven different homemade and inexpensive costumes</a>. Of course she is Martha and her costumes blow this one out of the water. Try making paper bag costumes or try one of Martha's. I promise, you and your kids will have a blast!<br /><br /><div></div>Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2327951305978720908.post-46351754979483362102009-02-07T20:27:00.005-06:002009-02-07T20:45:10.418-06:00Listen to Free Music<a href="http://www.marsneedsguitars.com/blog_pics/music%20notes.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 246px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 132px" alt="" src="http://www.marsneedsguitars.com/blog_pics/music%20notes.jpg" border="0" /></a> Okay, so everyone that I've talked to about what I'm about to post has laughed at me because I am the only 26 year old on the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">planet</span> that is so technology <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">impaired</span> but I'm going to post about this anyway because maybe there is someone out there like me.<br /><br />I recently discovered <a href="http://www.playlist.com/"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Playlist</span>.com</a>. It's the most amazing site! You can add as many songs as you want to a play list. You can put the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">play list</span> on your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Myspace</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Facebook</span>, Blog etc. or you can just listen to them <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">straight</span> from Playlist's site on your computer and much more. The best part is it's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">completely</span> FREE!!<br /><br />I have created 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">play lists</span> so far, my favorite songs at the moment, one for kids songs for my daughter and one for Sunday songs. I love it! I will put my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">play list</span> on and listen to it for hours while I craft, clean or just have a dance party with my daughter. A word of caution though if you are creating a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">play list</span> for a child, make sure you sample the song before you put it on the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">play list</span>. I discovered some of the Sesame Street Songs that came up on my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">search</span> were not actually Sesame Street songs but rather vulgar parody songs of original Sesame Street songs, so just be careful.<br /><br />I have posted my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">play list</span> of favorites at the bottom of the page if you want to check it out!Alicia @ The Creative Vaulthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18347683935045992751noreply@blogger.com2